CHARLESTON, W.Va. — A West Virginia National Guard member who was shot last week in a brazen daytime attack in Washington, D.C., remains in serious condition but has shown positive signs of recovery, according to Governor Patrick Morrisey.
Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, is fighting for his life following the shooting incident that also claimed the life of his comrade, U.S. Army Spc. Sarah Beckstrom, 20. Morrisey stated that Wolfe was able to respond to a nurse’s inquiries with a thumbs-up and wiggle his toes, indicating some level of responsiveness.
The family of Wolfe has requested the public to keep him in their prayers as he continues to battle for his recovery. Morrisey has not yet disclosed any details regarding funeral arrangements for Beckstrom, respecting the family's wishes at this tough time.
Wolfe and Beckstrom were deployed as part of a crime-fighting initiative ordered by President Trump, which included federalizing D.C. police. The pair was shot while on duty near the White House.
The investigation into the shooting is ongoing, with authorities working to determine a motive. The suspect, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, has been charged with first-degree murder, alongside multiple assault counts. Following the incident, Lakanwal was also injured and remains hospitalized, with a courtroom appearance still pending.
The shocking event led the Trump administration to halt asylum decisions and pause visa issuances for Afghan passport holders. There are currently about 2,200 troops deployed in D.C. as part of the joint task force, with around 170 members of the West Virginia National Guard having voluntarily extended their deployment until the end of the year.
Morrisey emphasized the importance of focusing on the immediate well-being of the service members on the ground and ensuring that prayers are sent out for those involved.
